Do You Really Need to Floss? Debunking Common Dental Myths

If there’s one dental question that never seems to go away, it’s this: Do I really need to floss? Some people swear by it, others admit they never touch dental floss, and a few believe brushing alone is enough. Let’s clear the air and tackle some of the biggest myths about flossing and oral hygiene.

Myth #1: Brushing Alone Is Enough

Fact: Brushing only cleans about 60% of the tooth’s surface. The other 40% — the tight spaces between teeth — is left untouched without flossing. That’s where food particles, plaque, and bacteria can build up. Over time, this buildup can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Flossing once a day removes what your toothbrush can’t reach.

Myth #2: If My Gums Bleed, I Should Stop Flossing

Fact: Occasional bleeding is actually a sign that your gums are inflamed, not that flossing is harmful. This inflammation is often caused by plaque buildup. With consistent daily flossing, bleeding usually decreases within a week or two as your gums become healthier. Think of flossing like exercise: the more consistently you do it, the stronger and healthier your gums get.

Myth #3: Flossing Hurts

Fact: Flossing shouldn’t be painful. If you feel discomfort, it’s usually because your gums are sensitive from lack of cleaning, or you may be flossing too aggressively. Gentle technique and regular practice make flossing quick, easy, and painless. Your dental hygienist can show you the right way to do it.

Myth #4: Flossing Is Outdated — Water Flossers Are Better

Fact: Water flossers (like Waterpik®) are excellent tools, especially for patients with braces, bridges, or dexterity challenges. However, they don’t fully replace traditional floss. The best approach? Use both when possible — water flossers to flush out debris, and string floss to scrape plaque off tooth surfaces.

Myth #5: Mouthwash Can Replace Flossing

Fact: Mouthwash helps kill bacteria and freshen breath, but it doesn’t physically remove plaque. Think of it like rinsing dirty dishes without scrubbing — it may look clean, but residue is left behind. Flossing is the “scrub” your teeth need.

The Bottom Line: Yes, You Really Do Need to Floss

Flossing isn’t just about avoiding cavities between your teeth. It’s also about preventing gum disease, which can impact your overall health. Research has linked gum disease to serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. By making flossing a daily habit, you’re protecting more than just your smile.

Tips to Make Flossing Easier

• Floss once a day — before bed is best.
• Use tools like floss picks or pre-threaded flossers if traditional string floss is tricky.
• Pair flossing with brushing and rinsing for a complete routine.
• Ask your hygienist for a demo if you’re unsure about your technique.

This blog post is provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. The content of this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.